What is a myelogram and is it used for IVDD

Written by Oh My Tail Team 

Published on: 21 March 2026

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your dog shows signs such as pain, weakness, difficulty walking, dragging the paws, loss of coordination, or other sudden mobility changes, seek veterinary care promptly. In the UK, contact your local veterinary practice or ask for a referral to a specialist such as a veterinary neurologist or orthopaedic surgeon. Early assessment is important for spinal conditions such as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and other neurological disorders.

What is a myelogram in dogs?

A myelogram in dogs is a type of specialised X-ray used to take a closer look at the spinal cord and the spaces around it. Unlike a regular X-ray, a myelogram uses a contrast dye that highlights the spinal canal, making it easier for veterinarians to spot problems like slipped discs or areas where nerves might be compressed. Essentially, it gives a clear “map” of your dog’s spine that isn’t visible on standard X-rays.

For dog owners concerned about IVDD, a myelogram provides a detailed view that helps vets understand exactly where the disc issues are and how severe they might be. It’s not the same as an MRI, but in some cases, it’s a practical way to pinpoint spinal problems, especially if MRI isn’t available. This explanation helps you understand what a myelogram is and why it might be suggested for your dog.

When is a myelogram used for IVDD?

A myelogram is typically used for IVDD in dogs when a veterinarian needs a detailed look at the spinal cord that isn’t possible with standard X-rays. It’s often chosen if MRI isn’t available or if previous imaging didn’t clearly show the problem.

This procedure helps identify exactly which discs are affected and where the spinal cord might be compressed, which is crucial for planning treatment or surgery. Myelograms are especially useful in dogs with complex spinal issues or when multiple discs could be involved. By highlighting the spinal canal with contrast dye, vets can pinpoint the source of pain or weakness much more accurately than with a regular X-ray.

Key situations for a myelogram include unclear X-ray results, suspected severe IVDD, or when precise surgical planning is needed for your dog’s spinal diagnosis.

How is a myelogram performed on dogs?

A myelogram procedure for dogs starts with a general anaesthetic to keep your pet calm and still during the imaging. Once your dog is safely asleep, the veterinarian injects a contrast dye into the space around the spinal cord. This dye makes the spinal canal visible on X-rays, allowing the vet to see any disc problems or areas where nerves are compressed.

During the procedure, your dog is carefully positioned so that the images capture the spine from the right angles. The whole process usually takes under an hour, though your dog will need a short recovery period from the anaesthetic afterwards. For owners, it’s important to understand that this isn’t a painful procedure while it’s happening, and the vet monitors your dog closely throughout.

A myelogram provides a step-by-step look at the spine that standard X-rays cannot, making it a useful tool for IVDD testing in dogs and precise spinal diagnosis.

Risks and side effects of myelograms

While myelograms are generally safe, there are some risks and side effects dog owners should be aware of. Because the procedure requires anaesthesia, there is a small risk related to sedation, especially in older dogs or those with other health issues. Some dogs may also experience mild reactions to the contrast dye, such as nausea, temporary discomfort, or muscle twitching.

In rare cases, more serious complications can occur, like infection or nerve irritation, but these are uncommon when the procedure is performed by an experienced veterinarian. After the procedure, your dog might be a bit groggy or sensitive for a few hours, and it’s important to follow the vet’s advice for rest and monitoring.

Overall, myelograms are considered a safe and valuable diagnostic tool for IVDD, giving vets clear insight into spinal problems that other imaging methods might miss.

Myelogram vs MRI and CT: which is better?

When it comes to diagnosing IVDD in dogs, myelograms, MRI, and CT scans each have their strengths. A myelogram highlights the spinal canal with contrast dye, making it useful for pinpointing which discs are pressing on the spinal cord. However, it doesn’t provide as much detail of soft tissues as an MRI does. MRI is generally considered the most accurate for seeing the spinal cord and discs in detail, but it can be expensive and isn’t always available.

CT scans are quicker than MRI and give good bone detail, which can help in certain cases, but they may miss subtle disc or nerve issues. Myelograms are often chosen when MRI isn’t an option or when a vet needs precise information for surgical planning.

In short, there isn’t a single “best” test for all dogs. The choice depends on what the vet needs to see, the dog’s condition, and the resources available. Understanding the differences helps owners make informed decisions about IVDD imaging for their dog.

Bottom line: should my dog have a myelogram?

If your dog has signs of IVDD and other imaging methods haven’t given a clear answer, a myelogram can be a valuable tool. It provides detailed information about the spinal cord and affected discs, which can be crucial for planning treatment or surgery.

Before deciding, discuss with your vet whether your dog is a good candidate, considering their overall health, age, and any risks from anaesthesia. Myelograms are generally safe and effective, but they are most useful when precise spinal information is needed.

In short, your dog should have a myelogram only if it will directly influence the next steps in care. For owners looking for clarity on IVDD testing, this is a practical way to ensure the vet can make informed decisions for the best outcome.

We focus on helping owners support dogs with mobility and comfort issues.

This article is for informational purposes and should not replace professional veterinary care.